Solving the Mystery: A Runner with Low Back and Hip Pain

Chronic low back and hip pain can make daily life and training a struggle. If you've tried other therapies without success, it may be time to see a chiropractor. In my office in Toronto's Annex neighbourhood, I focus on thorough care for your spine, nervous system and muscles. Olivia's story is a great example, and I'll let her tell it in her own words.

What are the psoas muscles, and why do they matter?

The psoas muscles are a large pair of muscles on both sides of the spine. They run from the lumbar spine, across the pelvis, to the top of the thigh bone. They are hip flexors: they lift your thigh so you can take a step, sit up and climb stairs. For athletes who repeat those movements in training, they matter even more.

When these muscles become tight, they pull too hard on the low back, increasing its curve (hyperlordosis). That puts extra pressure on the discs of the spine. The psoas also helps keep the head of the thigh bone in its socket, so a disruption can affect the hip joint too.

When one muscle can't do its job, others compensate, which can raise the risk of strain in the knees, hips and thighs. In other words, it's all connected, and it needs a neuromusculoskeletal approach.

Olivia's experience

I was referred to Dr. Josh by a good friend who had heard me complaining about chronic back and hip pain while training for a half marathon. I'd had this pain on and off for about 6 years and had tried everything… Although I was a bit skeptical to try yet another “fix”, I put my trust in Dr. Josh and have now been going to him for the last 10 months. My episodes of pain are now very infrequent… Even just coming to the office and getting to chat with Grace and Dr. Josh is such a lovely experience.

Olivia P.

How can chiropractic help?

Psoas tension is common in runners and athletes, but it can affect anyone. Long periods of sitting, such as working at a desk, can also tighten these muscles over time.

With specific adjustments to the low back and pelvis, I address the misalignments that may be adding to the tension. When your nervous system is working clearly, it is better able to coordinate your muscles so they contract and relax at the right times.

At Annex Family Chiropractic, I want to find and address the cause of low back pain, rather than mask it and let the problem build further down the road.

Ready to have your nervous system checked? Call 416-967-4466 for an appointment at our midtown Toronto office, or book online. Interested in learning more? Read What a Pain in the Neck! Chiropractic in Toronto.

References

1. Psoas muscle inhibition: often overlooked yet clinically important. The American Chiropractor, March 2022.
2. The psoas and iliacus: functional testing. Dynamic Chiropractic.
3. Kryzhanovskiĭ G. N. (1990). Disorders of neural trophism of the cell. Vestnik Akademii meditsinskikh nauk SSSR, (2), 4–7.